Scouting report: Southern Miss vs. Louisville in Beef O' Brady's Bowl

December 20, 2010|By Tribune Newspapers

BEEF O' BRADY'S BOWL

Southern Miss (8-4) vs. Louisville (6-6)

When: Today, 8 p.m.

Where: St. Petersburg

TV: ESPN

About Southern Miss (5-3 Conference USA): The Golden Eagles were arguably one of the most balanced and talented teams in Conference USA this season, but a 50-49 double overtime loss at UAB cost Southern Miss the Western Division title and a chance to play for the league championship. Veteran QB Austin Davis has made sound decisions under pressure, helping Southern Miss rank No. 15 nationally in total offense with 458.2 yards per game. The Golden Eagles have a strong defensive line and rank No. 13 nationally in rushing defense, giving up 113 yards per contest.

About Louisville (3-4 Big East): Former Florida defensive coordinator Charlie Strong completed a major turnaround in his first season as Louisville's head coach. The Cardinals posted a 4-8 record during the 2009 season, prompting the coaching change. Strong relied on a strong rushing attack led by Bilal Powell to claim six wins, including an upset of eventual Big East champion Connecticut. It will be Louisville's first bowl appearance since the 2006 season.